Capstone Student Design Projects Program

About the Program:

Students work in teams under the direction of a faculty advisor to tackle an engineering design project. Engineering communication, such as reports and oral presentations are covered. We emphasize practical, hands-on experience, and integrate analytical and design skills acquired in companion senior-level core courses.

The ME Capstone Design Projects include the following types of projects:

Industry Partner projects are supported by gifts to the program. Students have an opportunity to work on practical design projects and to interact with outside engineers. Industry will interact with some of our brightest and most capable students.

Research Partner projects are supported by research or University funding to support current University research projects. Students have an opportunity to work with leading international researchers, graduate students, and research laboratories.

Student Organizations and Design Competitions include the SAMPE Bridge and Wing Competitions, the Mini-Baja Car race, and Engineers Without Borders. Our student teams have successfully competed and have won several prestigious awards.

Student and Faculty Created Projects include creative and challenging projects such as the award winning Laryngoscope with internal suction, a solar-powered surf board, and athletic training equipment.

Objectives:

The program objectives are (1) design problem solving, creative thinking, project planning and teamwork through a challenging design and build project; (2) to provide experience in fundamental engineering reporting and communication including project plans, design reviews, and project reports.

Program Outcomes:

The student should acquire the experience of working as part of a team to solve a challenging and practical design and build problem within a limited budget.

The student and project design team activities will extend from Fall, Winter, and Spring Quarters.

The senior design project provides a broad application of engineering skills developed by the curriculum.